As winter makes its presence even more known in Northwest Arkansas, theatregoers might want to check in to island time. “Once on This Island,” the groundbreaking vision of two-time Tony Award®-nominated director Michael Arden and acclaimed choreographer Camille A. Brown, will come to life at Walton Arts Center Feb. 11-16 for eight performances.

“At each performance, there will be onstage seating, creating a unique experience within the footprint of every theater we play,” says Arden, the show’s director. “Audiences will be invited to put their feet in the sand and surround our company, becoming part of the show. It’s our goal to give all audiences a unique perspective of the communal nature of what theater can be in hopes that Once on This Island’s story of love, hope and forgiveness might inspire young minds and hearts all across the United States to lead their lives with compassion and empathy.”

Winner of the 2018 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical, Once on This Island is the sweeping, universal tale of Ti Moune, a fearless peasant girl in search of her place in the world, and ready to risk it all for love, according to a press release. Ti Moune sets out on a remarkable journey guided by great and powerful island gods to reunite with the man who has captured her heart.

Inspired by the revival’s immersive set design on Broadway, this touring production also has a unique set that gives audience members the opportunity to be a part of the storytelling and magic of Once on This Island with on-stage seats.

Cast members from the 2017 Broadway revival will lead the touring company, including “American Idol” Alum Tamyra Gray as Papa Ge, Cassondra James as Erzulie, Tony-nominee Phillip Boykin as Tonton Julian, Courtnee Carter as Ti Moune and Tyler Hardwick as Daniel Beauxhomme. Completing the gods of the island are Jahmaul Bakare as Agwe and Kyle Ramar Freeman as Asaka, according to a press release.

Showtimes for “Once on This Island” include 7 p.m. Feb 11-12, 1:30 and 7 p.m. Feb. 13, 8 p.m. Feb. 14, 2 and 8 p.m. Feb 15, and 2 p.m. Feb. 16.

Before the Feb. 15 performances, enjoy a themed cocktail class with a mixologist from Cannibal & Craft. Learn how to make special cocktails, paired with appetizers from Catering Unlimited. Tickets are $35 plus applicable fees, according to a press release. Participants must be 21 or older. Get in touch with the box office for more information.

Tickets for theater seating start at $40 plus applicable fees. A limited number on-stage seats are available at each performance for $25 plus applicable fees, restrictions apply. Tickets can be purchased in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office, by calling 479.443.5600 or by visiting waltonartscenter.org. Guests can also reserve parking for $7 when they purchase their show tickets.